Doubts

[04:37] Theon Gwyn says, "Miss Tragedy."
[04:37] Lotlhuitl says, "Fine."
[04:37] Tragedy says, "Hello little one."
[04:37] Theon Gwyn asks, "Hello. What did you do to my mother?"
[04:37] Tragedy says, "Ooh. I made her pseudo-immortal."
[04:38] Lotlhuitl casts her gaze towards Theon and Tragedy.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:38] Theon Gwyn asks, "Oh. Why?"
[04:38] Tragedy tapped her cheek as if pondering the question. "Well. She was upset at being weak. And with people wanting to kill her."
(Tragedy)
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[04:39] Lotlhuitl is standing, listening to the conversation.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:39] Theon Gwyn asks, "So there's no way for her to die anymore?"
[04:39] Tragedy says, "Eeeeeeeeehhh."
[04:40] Tragedy says, "It's just more difficult now, but she won't suffer from becoming an old woman like most mortals."
[04:40] Theon Gwyn says, "Hm."
[04:41] Theon Gwyn asks, "If people can still kill her, then what's the point?"
[04:41] Lotlhuitl says, "Perhaps you'll understand when you're older, child."
[04:41] Tragedy says, "Goodness, Theon. It makes her more difficult to kill."
[04:42] Tragedy says, "Reduces the number of people that can stab her."
[04:42] Tragedy says, "And so on."
[04:42] Theon Gwyn says, "I suppose."
[04:42] Theon decides to ignore Lotlhuitl's intrusion.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[04:42] Tragedy asks, "Has it come with any side effects?"
[04:43] Theon Gwyn says, "She looks different now."
[04:43] Tragedy says, "Yes, not surprising."
[04:43] Theon Gwyn whispers something.
[04:43] Tragedy whispers something.
[04:44] Theon feels the conversation is done, so he turns to the masked woman that had spoken prior.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[04:45] Theon Gwyn asks, "Do you need something?"
[04:48] Theon Gwyn says, "I suppose not..."
[04:48] Lotlhuitl says, "... hm."
[04:49] Lotlhuitl has tilted her head, regarding Theon.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:49] Theon raises his brow in expectation.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[04:49] Lotlhuitl just keeps looking at the kid. Thinking.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:50] Theon crosses his arms and lets himself get stared down, for lack of a better thing to do.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[04:50] Lotlhuitl says, "Hm.."
[04:51] Lotlhuitl shifted over to the fire, warming her hands. Still silently lookin' at Theon.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:51] Lotlhuitl whispers: We haven't met.
[04:52] Theon Gwyn whispers: I suppose not.
[04:52] Tizoc floats over towards the chair and then floats above it to symbolize that he was currently occupying the chair. He then silently stares at Lotlhuitl and Theon.
(Tizoc)
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[04:53] Lotlhuitl only has eyes for a fourteen year old boy, apparently...
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:53] Tezoxochel sweats vicariously.
(Tezoxochel)
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[04:53] Lotlhuitl asks, "What's your name, young man?"
[04:54] Theon Gwyn asks, "Theon. And yours?"
[04:54] Lotlhuitl says, "Lotlhuitl, of the Cruxati."
[04:55] Theon Gwyn says, "I see. It's a pleasure, then."
[04:55] Lotlhuitl asks, "Is it?"
[04:55] Lotlhuitl tilted her head, blinking.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:55] Theon shrugs. "You caught me. Not really."
(Theon Gwyn)
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[04:55] Theon Gwyn says, "But definitely interesting."
[04:55] Lotlhuitl says, "..aha."
[04:55] Theon Gwyn says, "Interesting to meet you. I suppose."
[04:55] Tizoc begins clapping at the burn Theon inflicted upon the nagual woman. Before he just goes back to silently watching the both of them and eavesdropping.
(Tizoc)
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[04:56] Lotlhuitl hadn't been offended, if anything, she'd seemed amused. Right up until Tizoc decided to clap.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[04:56] Theon snaps a quick glare in Tizoc's direction. Mostly out of confusion as to what the man was doing. It was short-lived.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[04:56] Lotlhuitl says, ". . . . ."
[04:56] Lotlhuitl asks, "You got something to say, kinsman?"
[04:57] Lotlhuitl says, "Because when I say things with my hands, people tend to not talk back.."
[04:57] Tizoc shrugs, he clearly had nothing to say as he was still on his self imposed day of silence.
(Tizoc)
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[04:58] Lotlhuitl says, "Answer me."
[04:58] The nagual brings his hand up to his his mouth, opens said mouth and then points to it before nodding in disagreement.
(Tizoc)
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[04:59] Lotlhuitl asks, "... a mute?"
[04:59] Osha says, "At least now. He cannot talk back."
[04:59] Osha asks, "Problem. Solved?"
[04:59] Lotlhuitl says, "... harumph.."
[04:59] Lotlhuitl pivoted on one foot, head held high. And took the five or so paces back to the fire. Back to staring at Theon..
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:00] Tizoc nods his head slightly in agreement to her statement that he was a mute.
(Tizoc)
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[05:00] Theon Gwyn says, "There's a reason you've taken a sudden interest in me."
[05:01] Lotlhuitl whispers: I take it by your conversation with Tragedy that--
[05:01] Lotlhuitl says, "I've never met you before. "
[05:01] Lotlhuitl tilted her head.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:01] Theon Gwyn asks, "Is it a habit of yours to just approach young boys you've never seen before?"
[05:01] Theon tilts his head in a similar manner.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[05:01] Lotlhuitl perhaps had motives beyond what she was letting on.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:01] Lotlhuitl says, "Aha. "
[05:01] Lotlhuitl crouched down, leaning her gauntletted hands against her knees as she regarded the teenager.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:02] Theon keeps his gaze on the fire. There's no point in trying to see through the mask.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[05:02] Theon Gwyn whispers: So what was it about my convesation with Miss Tragedy?
[05:03] Leans over to take and eat a crop
[05:04] Lotlhuitl whispers: Your question intrigued me.
[05:04] Lotlhuitl whispers: I admit, I was curious if you asked because it bothered you.. or..
[05:05] Theon Gwyn whispers: I was curious. What my mother decides to do is none of my business.
[05:05] Lotlhuitl whispers: If you say so.
[05:06] Lotlhuitl inclined her head, giving a gesture as if to concede the point.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:06] Theon Gwyn whispers: I take it you know my mother. More than most people that run away from her, at least.
[05:06] Lotlhuitl whispers: I do not run from Kayeliun.
[05:06] Theon Gwyn whispers: Precisely why I made that assumption.
[05:06] Lotlhuitl looked INCREDIBLY stiff all of a sudden.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:06] Lotlhuitl whispers: I am no coward.
[05:07] Theon Gwyn whispers: I see.
[05:07] Theon steals a quick glance before returning to the fire.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[05:08] Lotlhuitl wasn't looking at Theon, was... staring into the fire, clenching and unclenching her fists as she seemed to struggle to compose herself..
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:08] Lotlhuitl straightened, drawing herself up.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:08] Lotlhuitl whispers: I.. admit, you caught me. I know your mother.
[05:08] Lotlhuitl whispers: Your father, less so.
[05:09] Theon Gwyn whispers: He's not a very sociable man.
[05:09] Lotlhuitl whispers: I respect that.
[05:10] Lotlhuitl whispers: ... I understand if you'd rather not wander off with a woman you just met, but.. how do you feel wandering down to the beach with me?
[05:10] Lotlhuitl whispers: I am not particularly a sociable woman, and these crowds irritate me.
[05:10] Theon Gwyn whispers: Not particularly keen.
[05:10] Lotlhuitl whispers: Ah, fair.
[05:12] Lotlhuitl whispers: ... I suppose the real reason I approached you, is because you were speaking about something interesting when the rest of the crowd around here, well, doesn't.
[05:12] Lotlhuitl whispers: You stood out.
[05:12] Lotlhuitl whispers: Being Kayeliun's son is an interesting coincidence, but..
[05:13] Theon looks up at those gathered around the table.
(Theon Gwyn)
[05:13] Lotlhuitl whispers: ...hm. Surely you see what I mean.
[05:14] Lotlhuitl whispers: You seem like a bright young man.
[05:14] Theon Gwyn whispers: Yeah... I see.
[05:14] Lotlhuitl whispers: I do not mean it to be cruel. The world needs people like them.
[05:15] Lotlhuitl whispers: They're not -worthless-, but... I do not envy them one bit.
[05:15] Theon Gwyn whispers: Life would definitely be more boring without people to complain about.
[05:15] Lotlhuitl whispers: It's only a small blessing I suppose that they seem oblivious to their nature..
[05:15] Lotlhuitl says, "Aha.."
[05:15] Lotlhuitl laughed, voice muffled by her mask.
(Lotlhuitl)
[05:16] Lotlhuitl whispers: Who do you have to complain about, young Theon?
[05:17] Theon Gwyn whispers: The Jianghese wanting my family dead while simultaneously being the most obnoxious group of hypocrites I've ever laid eyes on.
[05:17] Lotlhuitl says, "Mmm..."
[05:18] Lotlhuitl whispers: My, that is.. yes.
[05:18] Lotlhuitl whispers: I spent years in Ardent.
[05:18] Lotlhuitl whispers: They're not just obnoxious, they're loudly so.
[05:18] Theon Gwyn whispers: I've only just seen them in a failed raid they attempted here not too long ago. I don't think I need to look deeper into them.
[05:20] Theon Gwyn whispers: I suppose it's to be expected for many people to wish for my mother's death. I just wish it was someone more dignified.
[05:20] Lotlhuitl tilted her head.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:20] Lotlhuitl whispers: Like who?
[05:20] Osha says, "I will see. If I can get some crowns."
[05:20] Lotlhuitl whispers: That's a strange thing to wish for, young Theon.
[05:22] Lotlhuitl whispers: I'm uncertain that you will get someone dignified wishing for your mother's death, if I am truthful.
[05:23] Theon Gwyn whispers: I don't think so either. That's why it's only a wish.
[05:23] Theon Gwyn whispers: Not that I want my mother dead.
[05:23] Lotlhuitl whispers: Of course.
[05:24] Lotlhuitl whispers: I only met one Jianghuanese person worthy of respect in all the time I spent there.
[05:24] Lotlhuitl whispers: And she was not from Ardent.
[05:24] Lotlhuitl whispers: Maybe two, if I lower the bar slightly.
[05:24] Lotlhuitl whispers: And she would not want your mother dead.
[05:25] Theon Gwyn whispers: That's good.
[05:25] Lotlhuitl whispers: She's a peaceful creature.. who, seeing sense, left Ardent.
[05:25] Lotlhuitl whispers: My point is, only scum live there..
[05:25] Theon Gwyn whispers: Maybe Jianghu simply sent the worst they had to offer.
[05:25] Lotlhuitl whispers: Perhaps..
[05:25] Lotlhuitl whispers: I mean, I'm bitter, I'll be honest.
[05:26] Lotlhuitl whispers: But if I'm being charitable, it may have been as you said.
[05:27] Lotlhuitl whispers: ... do you remember what they looked like, the attackers?
[05:27] Theon Gwyn whispers: I didn't pay attention to any particular one.
[05:28] Lotlhuitl whispers: ...mn, fair. I apologise, young one.
[05:28] Theon Gwyn whispers: It's fine.
[05:36] Theon Gwyn whispers: Why did you live in Ardent for all these years? Are you living here now?
[05:36] Lotlhuitl whispers: not all these years, no...
[05:38] Lotlhuitl whispers: ...bad things happened to me, young Theon.
[05:38] Lotlhuitl whispers: ... and to my family.
[05:40] Theon Gwyn whispers: That's unfortunate.
[05:40] Lotlhuitl whispers: I was injured. My friend, the Jianghuanese woman, she helped me recover high up in the mountains.
[05:41] Lotlhuitl whispers: I made a powerful enemy. In life, there are always people who are stronger than you. I.. declined to be murdered. So I was forced to keep my distance, I suppose..
[05:41] Lotlhuitl whispers: And I suppose I told a lie, earlier. Perhaps I am a coward.
[05:42] Lotlhuitl whispers: Not so much fearful of death, but the consequences my choices wrought.
[05:42] Lotlhuitl laughed softly, shaking her head.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:42] Theon Gwyn whispers: It was the raid on Ardent from Gaiar.
[05:42] Lotlhuitl whispers: Never you mind about that. That's my worry, child.
[05:42] Lotlhuitl whispers: Hm?
[05:42] Lotlhuitl whispers: what was?
[05:42] Theon Gwyn whispers: That's where you were injured, was it?
[05:42] Lotlhuitl whispers: Incorrect.
[05:43] Lotlhuitl whispers: I.. I did not stand against the Coalition.
[05:43] Theon Gwyn whispers: Oh. Hm.
[05:43] Lotlhuitl whispers: It was my husband, Xoconan, who injured me.
[05:44] Theon remains silent for a moment, making connections. For the first time since the conversation started, Theon began to look tense.
(Theon Gwyn)
[05:45] Theon Gwyn whispers: Why'd. Why did he?
[05:46] Lotlhuitl whispers: He was mad.
[05:46] Lotlhuitl whispers: He was strong.
[05:46] Lotlhuitl whispers: Because he could.
[05:47] Lotlhuitl whispers: Do you remember my husband, Theon? Surely you were born when he died..
[05:47] Lotlhuitl whispers: Though, if your mother knew sense, she would've protected you from him.
[05:47] Theon Gwyn whispers: Yes... I remember him.
[05:47] Lotlhuitl whispers: Like I should have done, for my children.
[05:47] Theon Gwyn whispers: He never even looked my way.
[05:47] Lotlhuitl whispers: For the best, Theon.
[05:47] Lotlhuitl whispers: ... he wasn't always like that.
[05:47] Lotlhuitl blinked, raising a hand to her mask, tapping against it. Thoughtful. Sad.
(Lotlhuitl)
[05:48] Lotlhuitl whispers: ... at the time, I thought it was my fault.
[05:48] Lotlhuitl shrugged.
(Lotlhuitl)
[05:49] Theon Gwyn whispers: I suppose not.
[05:50] Lotlhuitl whispers: That's the spirit. Now.. what do you like to do, hm?
[05:50] Lotlhuitl whispers: I feel like I've dominated the conversation long enough!
[05:50] Theon Gwyn whispers: I fish.
[05:50] Lotlhuitl whispers: Fish?
[05:50] Theon Gwyn whispers: As in. The act of fishing.
[05:51] Lotlhuitl whispers: Yes, I understand.
[05:51] Lotlhuitl whispers: I too enjoy a spot of fishing..
[05:51] Lotlhuitl whispers: Caught anything interesting, recently?
[05:52] Theon Gwyn whispers: I've been able to catch more Rainbow Fish than usual recently. I assume they're just not as rare as people say they are.
[05:52] Lotlhuitl whispers: Ooh. They're my favourites..
[05:52] Theon Gwyn whispers: I still managed to sell them to local merchants for a good price, since they're not particularly good for eating. Or anything else, really...
[05:52] Lotlhuitl whispers: They -are- pretty though.
[05:53] Theon Gwyn whispers: It's sad that's all they have going for them.
[05:53] Lotlhuitl says, "... heh."
[05:53] Lotlhuitl went quiet for a moment, tail twitching. Something about the woman said that she found Theon's comment strangely ironic.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:53] Lotlhuitl whispers: I can sympathise.
[05:54] Theon Gwyn whispers: I wouldn't know.
[05:56] Lotlhuitl whispers: Yes, you seem like a bright young man. Lots of potential.
[05:57] Theon Gwyn whispers: Thank you.
[05:57] Lotlhuitl whispers: It's a burden, being useful, but it is worse to be useless and know it.
[05:57] Lotlhuitl whispers: You're welcome. Don't waste your potential, is my unsolicited advice.
[05:57] Lotlhuitl winked.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[05:58] Theon Gwyn whispers: I don't plan on it.
[05:58] Theon didn't seem to catch that.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[05:58] Lotlhuitl whispers: Aha, no-one ever does..

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[06:04] A frail old woman, hunched back or so Sui Yun pretended she had so, walked up to where the bulk of the awake Crafthold population was at, particularly by the bulletin board! She was hooded and dressed in all brown, the shadows casted by her non-revealing clothing making the illusion that she was a darker shade of tone.

"G.. Greetings..." She said raspily, Sui Yun pretending also to make such a voice. She held out a paper, also.
(Sui Yun)
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[06:05] Sui Yun says, "M.... My name is Suiyunutl.."
[06:05] Lotlhuitl says, "... greetings."
[06:05] Sui Yun says, "I have come to relay.. a message.."
[06:05] {Item} You picked up To All Oppressed.Dropped by Tizoc. .
[06:05] Sui Yun says, "I saw.. an angry masked man.. rip this paper from the bulletin board.. of the Ardent."
[06:06] {Item} You drop To All Oppressed.
[06:06] Sui Yun says, "This paper.. is from here."
[06:06] Lotlhuitl says, "... "
[06:06] Lotlhuitl says, "cowards."
[06:06] Isaiah walks up, rifle over his shoulder, bending over as he grabs the paper from the woman gently.

Poor old lady.

"Her voice sounds very rough. Can someone get her some water?" He questioned, reading over the pape-

NEVERMIND. He apparently picks it up after EVERYONE ELSE HAS HAD A READ.
(Isaiah Dawn)
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[06:06] Sui Yun says, "I wish.. to give warning."
[06:07] Lotlhuitl says, ".. that is kind of you, ma'am."
[06:07] Sui Yun says, "Conflict between the Ardent.. and the Crafthold... is a ploy."
[06:07] Lotlhuitl asks, "... uh.. grandma?"
[06:07] Lotlhuitl says, "Mn."
[06:07] Lotlhuitl asks, "A ploy for what?"

[06:07] Sui Yun says, "Both sides.. have points."
[06:07] Sui Yun says, "There is a.. third party.. who is destroying peace."
[06:08] Lotlhuitl asks, "... which is?"
[06:08] Sui Yun says, "One who.. is pitting the two settlements closer to war.."
[06:08] Sui Yun says, "The Ardent and the Crafthold's reactions to hostility.. is only fabricated."
[06:08] Tragedy says, "Ummmm."
[06:09] Sui Yun says, "The true menace.. pinning we and Ardent against one another... is the one whom slayed the blonde Valmasian, the Elizabeth."
[06:09] Lotlhuitl asks, "... the strange outlanders? Brazha and her group?"
[06:09] Tragedy says, "Kill her."
[06:09] Lotlhuitl blinked.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[06:09] A decidedly LESS CALM old person barges in. Looking scornful, to say the least.

"Never been a Krausite ploy that didn't end the same way. Death to those who don't fit the bill. Not much more one can be warned of--"
(Sima Kang)
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[06:09] Tizoc says, "Oh okay guys we have to kill her."
[06:09] Tragedy says, "Yup."
[06:09] Sima Kang says, "Oh."
[06:09] Isaiah Dawn asks, "Whoah- Wait, what?"
[06:10] Alea says, "W.... Wha-.... W.... N-N...o..."
[06:10] Tezoxochel says, "... I would, but my staff's not enchanted."
[06:10] Isaiah Dawn exclaims, "You're damned right no!"
[06:10] Alea smacks her head in frustration. The words just won't come out...
(Alea)
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[06:10] Sibri says, "Keeh..."
[06:10] Tragedy says, "Fine. The 'kill her' was just for dramatic effect."
[06:10] Tragedy says, "But goodness."
[06:10] Tizoc says, "Er. I was getting ready mentally to do that."
[06:11] Tizoc says, "Sorry."
[06:12] Isaiah Dawn asks, "Jeeze... Bloodthirsty, much? What did this old lady to do any of you?"
[06:12] Tizoc says, "Er. We are supposed to serve the higher beings."
[06:13] Sui Yun says, "Mmh..."
[06:13] Sui Yun says, "I am but a mere messenger.."
[06:13] Sui Yun says, "The Ardent are.. reactionary."
[06:13] Tragedy says, "I'm not going to kill her. Instantly."
[06:13] Sui Yun says, "They only attacked.. due to reacting to death of their own."
[06:13] Lotlhuitl blinked slowly. Sibri was here now.

"Messengers have been killed before. I assumed that was why Ardent sent you, you've lived your life. Death need not be unkind."
(Lotlhuitl)
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[06:14] Tragedy says, "Elizabeth told me she was going to attack the demons. So I killed her. Sounds reactionary as well."
[06:14] Gizmo asks, "A bit hypocritical, aren't they..?"
[06:14] Sui Yun says, "There were conflicts earlier before the incident, yes.. but there were chances of repairing then."
[06:14] Sima Kang says, "Ah-- I can only recommend never killing messengers. As long as they don't serve as spies."
[06:14] Isaiah Dawn says, "W-Wait."
[06:14] Isaiah Dawn asks, "You killed Elizabeth?"
[06:14] Tragedy says, "Mhmm."
[06:14] Sima Kang says, "That communication's meaningful. Killing one messenger tells everyone that speaking is impossible."
[06:14] Theon Gwyn says, "I believe that's one of the reasons Ardent decided to raid one of Crafthold's watchtowers. Yes."
[06:14] Sui Yun says, "When the Valmasian was slain... there were many more votes going to 'Ikkaku'."
[06:15] Sui Yun says, "One who despises Crafthold.. before incident."
[06:15] Theon Gwyn says, "A sudden attack that didn't work out very well for them. 'Reactionary'. Now that the word's being thrown around."
[06:16] Tragedy says, "Sui Yun... my favourite satirical publisher."
[06:16] Tragedy says, "Could it be. That it was not satire all along."
[06:16] Lotlhuitl asks, "... this is Sui Yun?"
[06:16] Tragedy says, "Come on. They pronounced themselves as Suiyunotl."
[06:16] Lotlhuitl says, "... Jianghuanese names all sound the same to me.."
[06:16] Tragedy says, "Isaiah. She was going to start a war anyway. I already asked her."
[06:16] Tragedy says, "So there was nothing else to it."
[06:16] Sima Kang says, "Hhrrmh. Krausites don't rest until they've purged all "evil" before them, man woman and child alike."
[06:16] Tezoxochel says, "If you know there's going to be a war, it only makes sense to strike first."
[06:17] Tezoxochel shrugs...
(Tezoxochel)
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[06:17] Lotlhuitl reached for Sibri's hand..
(Lotlhuitl)
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[06:17] Tezoxochel says, "Whether or not it was inevitable is a truth only Miss Tragedy might know the sincerity of, though."
[06:17] Tezoxochel says, "And, uh. I won't argue that..."
[06:17] Tezoxochel says, "Nope."
[06:18] Tragedy says, "You can just look at Ikkaku's speeches..."
[06:18] Sibri gave an impassive glance to those around him before his focus set on Lothuitl- followed by a gentle tug on her tail. Staring for a moment, his gaze drifted to Tragedy. "Is someone dying."

Then he glazed to his left, toward the small, wrinkled woman, his head tilting slightly.
(Sibri)
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[06:18] Tragedy says, "And then his appointed wife, Elizabeth."
[06:18] Isaiah Dawn says, "Whoever casts the first stone... This... This isn't right. I... I can't do anything about it now, but... "
[06:18] Isaiah Dawn says, "You should leave, lady."
[06:18] Isaiah Dawn says, "Before you get hurt."
[06:18] Sima Kang says, "Their policies're an implicit declaration of war. True war-- The absolute definition. War isn't just a set of battles."
[06:19] Sima Kang says, "War is the struggle to destroy the enemy's way of life. That's what those speeches mean."
[06:19] Sui Yun says, "I.. believed that Crafthold was truly a neutral settlement."
[06:19] Isaiah Dawn says, "I don't care who you are. You should leave either way."
[06:19] Tragedy says, "So you thought you could come here and turn them against Aetherius."
[06:19] Tragedy says, "Very cute."
[06:19] Tragedy says, "Imprison her please."
[06:19] Sui Yun says, "But I suppose that neutrality is inevitably destroyed.. which I always warn against."
[06:19] Sui Yun says, "If not from outside influences, then from the inside."
[06:20] Sui Yun says, "I cannot tolerate that it is due to outside sources, however.."
[06:20] Lotlhuitl says, "... why would Crafthold be neutral? Crafthold was just attacked by Ardent."
[06:20] Tezoxochel shrugs rather nonchalantly. They're probably just going to walk off, having become disinterested in the subject.
(Tezoxochel)
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[06:20] Humming with that order, Sibri turned around and stared Sui Yun down in a look of distant neutrality. "Very well, keeh. Come with me, lady."
(Sibri)
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[06:21] Tragedy says, "Crafthold. Is a part of Gaiar. Do your research in the future."
[06:21] Sui Yun says, "All of you are being manipulated, blinded."
[06:21] Lotlhuitl says, "... I thought she wrote newspapers.."
[06:21] Tragedy says, "Satirical newspapers."
[06:21] Lotlhuitl says, "Er.. things.. which got put into newspapers.."
[06:21] Tragedy says, "But apparantly... they were real."
[06:21] Lotlhuitl says, "Hm."
[06:21] Tragedy looks distant, losing hope
(Tragedy)
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[06:21] Sui Yun exclaims, "Must the human race be under Internationalist occupation?!"
[06:21] Isaiah Dawn exclaims, "We're UNDER, Gaiar. We still hold neutrality. We aren't-- We aren't part of a war effort!"
[06:22] Theon Gwyn says, "Yet."
[06:22] Lotlhuitl says, "... the demons are as Agathan as I am."
[06:22] Lotlhuitl says, "Agarthan**"
[06:22] Sima Kang says, "Hhmf. Ardent's a creature with two heads. A sheep's, and a snake's. One creeps, and whispers, and controls, and the other simply follows."
[06:22] Sima Kang says, "One has to sever the right head."
[06:22] Tragedy says, "Goodness, Sima. Where did you pick that up."
[06:22] Gizmo says, "We'd -like- to be neutral, but... I've already had to argue not to be killed by a pair of Ardent higher-ups simply 'fer existin'. And then they attack Crafthold itself."
[06:22] Sui Yun says, "How dare you put up propaganda in Ardent, claiming that this settlement was one of peace, neutrality, and creation above all else."
[06:22] Sui Yun says, "Yet what you are all doing, creating things which help to destroy."
[06:22] Isaiah Dawn asks, "Gizmo... You are't... Really saying we should... Go to war...?"
[06:22] Theon Gwyn says, "Maybe it wasn't written by a Craftholdian."
[06:22] Sima Kang asks, "Good fifty years ago. Xuantong. We ever talk about that place...?"
[06:22] Gizmo says, "Propaganda? I stared down a sword placed t' my neck simply 'fer tryin' t' sell enchants in the prairie t' 'yer people."
[06:22] Tragedy says, "Vaguely."
[06:23] Sui Yun says, "I need to expose to you all.. more secrets regarding the agenda we are all a part of."
[06:23] Sima Kang says, "I'll just say, where Shengese can't see the emperor, they choose something else to follow. Just has to be loud enough."
[06:23] Squinting, his round eyes turned to thin slips for a moment, then his hand lifted up and he snapped his fingers. Around her ankle a vine lifted to squeeze tightly, like a serpent slithering up and out of the grass.

"I said. Come with me."

If she looked, she'd see that it was connected to Sibri, the tail end dangling out of his sleeve.

She could resist and set herself free, of course.
(Sibri)
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[06:23] Sui Yun says, "The Demons are only using the Internationalist agenda to fool you! Blinded by the feel-good ness of prosperous, multiracial paradise."
[06:23] Sui Yun says, "When in reality, the Demons themselves are 'secretly Suiyunist'."
[06:24] Lotlhuitl says, "... whuh.."
[06:26] Tragedy says, "There is no choice but to fight. To think you can live at peace forever is a delusion. Protect what you love."

[06:26] Sui Yun would attempt to escape! However, she lost her balance as the vine pulled on her feet, causing her to inevitably fall. A not quite audible, but noticable sound of cracked bones or at least ligaments could be heard. "AAAAAH! MY HIPS!!!"
(Sui Yun)
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[06:26] Nyphadora says, "Pff."
[06:26] Lotlhuitl says, "Ack.."

[06:27] Theon looks just a tad distraught at the old woman's... entire situation.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[06:27] Sima Kang says, "No higher cause than progress. And this pla--"
[06:27] Sima Kang says, "I. Goodness."

[06:28] She hit the soil with a thud, and Sibri stared down, unsure whether or not it was an act... Though the crack of her hip certainly sounded very real...

"...What do you want done with her, Archon Tragedy?"
(Sibri)
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[06:28] Tragedy says, "Just put her in the fortress jail until Eiphraem arrives."
[06:28] The old, tormented, frankly sometimes HATEFUL undead looks genuinely a touch distressed. Good lord, he felt that crack.
(Sima Kang)
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[06:28] Tragedy says, "He can deal with it..."
[06:28] Sibri says, "Yes-yes."
[06:28] Sibri says, "Something so weak and old should be pruned. Keeh."
[06:29] Sima Kang says, "I'd say that folks should still value their elders' wisdom, but, uhh..."
[06:30] Demetrius asks, "Does.. she.. have a.. anti magic.. collar?"
[06:30] Nyphadora asks, "Oh, is that a Magi?"
[06:30] Nyphadora says, "But it looks so fragile..."
[06:31] Demetrius fishes into his pocket, seems he still had trouble breathing.
(Demetrius)
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[06:31] Demetrius says, "Seems I.. left it.. at home.. I'll be right.. back."

[06:34] Sui Yun, indeed, was grimacing over the pain of her yet again broken, slightly dislocated, or simply just sore hips and back. It was not as bad as when Geese Huzi had broken her hips in their fight a decade ago, of course. So much for law enforcing Gehennan loyal to the Emperor, when he might have sought refuge over here!!

"Y-y-you are all making a grave mistake!!" Sui Yun exclaimed through the excruciating pain, to all those around her as she was dragged. "T-t-the Demons are the TRUE SUIYUNISTS! They want to purge Agartha in reality, of everything but their own kind!! They're only using this Internationalist A-A-Agenda to lure all of you in!! Taking advantage of your 'born in Agartha' status... m-m-manipulating you! Manipulating -US-! Into fighting in a war against one another - human against human!! I-I-I adopted 'Suiyunism'.. in order to counter the Suiyunism of the D-Demons! THAT is ALL that I have e-e-ever intended!! For the Emperor once said - e-e-every human life is precious!!"

"One day... all Demon Internationalist influence will disappear.." Sui Yun smiled amidst it all, not visible naturally due to her hood. "Demons have always used lies and slander even in Sheng, and in other continents! This one is no different, pinning us against each other..."

"L-L-LITERALLY FUNDING BOTH SIDES OF ALL WARS AND CONFLICTS THROUGH THE FIFTY YEARS OF RECENT HISTORY!!!"
(Sui Yun)
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[06:34] Theon just makes the face again.
(Theon Gwyn)
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[06:34] https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8vV1Se81JTs/maxresdefault.jpg
(Tragedy)
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[06:34] ...Sima takes Dmex's mask off, and spends a minute leaning on the table for support, blinking dumbly.

Wowzers.
(Sima Kang)
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[06:34] Lotlhuitl cringed.

"Ardent is depraved, sending an elderly woman."

The woman looked to Sibri, her face hidden save for her green eyes. Which blinked.

"Mn," she exhaled. Considering what had been said. Looked down at the injured old lady. She wondered, would a pruning occur? In truth, while the Nagual's thoughts on old age may have leant more towards Sibri's line of thought, she still felt a considerable ounce of pity for the old woman. Who was possibly senile.

Wordlessly, the woman reached down to attempt to scoop an arm beneath Sui Yun's armpits and help her to her feet.. and.. to assist with carrying her.

"Of course. There, there, Grandma." she breathed, attempting to be soothing, but, well, probably seeming more awkward and stiff than anything.

Lotlhuitl gave Sibri a sideways glance.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[06:35] Demetrius staggers up towards the older woman, pulling free a set of anti-magic restraints stolen from some sheng household, aiming to place it upon the concealed Sui Yun's arm.
(Demetrius)
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[06:35] Sima Kang says, "Ah, uhh... For what it's worth. She's probably come here with only her own agenda. Saw her arrested in the streets of Ardent more than once."
[06:36] Lotlhuitl says, "Oh.. so she's a crazy woman, then.."
[06:36] A low chuckle resounded out of Sibri's throat, quiet and brief. He nodded to Lothuitl as they lifted Sui Yun up, and toward the tower they went...
(Sibri)
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[06:36] Tragedy says, "Not the tower Sibri-chan."
[06:36] Tragedy says, "The floating fortress."
[06:36] Sibri says, "Nn."
[06:36] Sui Yun exclaims, "NOT EVEN MY OWN PEOPLE ACCEPT ME!!"
[06:37] Lotlhuitl says, "... aw.."
[06:37] Sui Yun exclaims, "AND BARELY ANY OF MY LAWS WERE IMPLEMENTED WHILE THE REST WERE DISCARDED!!"
[06:37] Lotlhuitl says, "Gosh.. that sounds.."
[06:37] Sibri says, "It sounds like. You are a failure. Keeh."
[06:37] Sui Yun exclaims, "IKKAKU MAY SEEM LIKE A NATIONALIST, BUT HE WILL BRING DOWN NOT JUST THE SHENGESE RACE, BUT ALL OF HUMANITY!!"
[06:38] Lotlhuitl says, "... Ikakku is a spineless idiot, though..."
[06:38] Sibri gestured toward the water infront, now that they stood out by the sea. "Would you like to drown. Perhap it is preferable. Kehkeh."
(Sibri)
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[06:39] Demetrius says, "Re..straints as.. per.. Tragedy's.. orders."
[06:39] Lotlhuitl tilted her head, examining the elderly woman.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[06:40] Demetrius hands Sibri the remote before staggering off.
(Demetrius)
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[06:51] Sibri huffs, glancing between Lothuitl and Sui Yun. He turns to step around them and position himself Lotl, before his hand drifted down to stroke along her tail, fingers gliding up the smooth fur.

"Put her in the prison cell, sweet. Keheh. Preferably gagged."
(Sibri)
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[06:54] Lotlhuitl exhaled audibly as Sibri's fingers brushed along her tail. Her attention shifting to the Dryad. Blush concealed by the mask. "Y-yes, Sibri," she breathed, tail twitching as he stroke it. Her fur lightly bristled, a shiver working its way up from her toes aaalll the way to her head.

"A-aha," Lotl laughed, despite herself, before stiffening as she immediately remembered that there was a crazy old lady watching her.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[06:57] It was followed by a smack on the butt to speed things up. Sibri chuckled lightly.

And then it was done. Woohoo.
(Sibri)
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[06:57] Sibri says, "Shall we return? Keheh."
[06:57] Lotlhuitl says, "I almost wish she had wished to be drowned."
[06:57] Lotlhuitl says, "Would make things simpler."
[06:58] Sibri says, "Agreed, agreed."

[07:00] Lotlhuitl reached for Sibri's hand, looking decidedly awkward..
(Lotlhuitl)
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[07:01] Tragedy leaned over to eat a crop.
(Tragedy)
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[07:01] Tragedy says, "Pllgphph"
[07:01] Tragedy says, "Yuck"
[07:01] Lotlhuitl says, "..."
[07:01] Lotlhuitl whispers: I didn't think Archons needed to eat.
[07:03] Sibri whispers: They are mysterious in many ways. Keheh.
[07:03] Lotlhuitl stared at Sibri..
(Lotlhuitl)
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[07:03] Lotlhuitl whispers: I want to.. get out of here.
[07:04] Sibri whispers: Nn? Come on, then.
[07:04] Sibri tilted his head curiously for a moment, before his fingers slid around her wrist and she was led westward.
(Sibri)
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[07:05] Lotlhuitl says, "I... I was in Crafthold."
[07:05] Lotlhuitl says, ".. I mean, you know that."
[07:05] Lotlhuitl says, "But.. earlier."
[07:05] Lotlhuitl says, "When you weren't there."
[07:06] Lotlhuitl looked distinctly frazzled, a certain kind of intense energy flowing through her.. she seemed... twitchy.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[07:07] His chin tilted back then, lips pursing. Sibri glanced left and right before resuming his steps, leading Lothuitl with--into their home nearby, which was lit faintly by candles.
(Sibri)
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[07:12] She discarded her mask. It clattered to the ground, carelessly thrown aside. And then, in the same fluid motion, she draped herself over him.

Or, attempted to.

She wanted to wrap her arms around Sibri. Wanted to nuzzle her face against his neck. Wanted to cling to him. Press her body against his. Wanted comfort.

HIGHLY UNUSUAL FOR THE NORMALLY CONTACT AND AFFECTION PHOBIC NAGUAL.

She shook.

"Kayeliun has a son. I didn't even know. I spoke to him. Nice boy. Good boy. I.. I felt so jealous. I was going to just take him, then and there."

She shuddered, eyes wide as she looked up at Sibri.

"I felt it. The power within me. It had an idea. An idea on how I could torment Kayeliun. Get revenge. I don't.. I don't know if I'm strong enough."

Lotlhuitl was a HIGHLY emotional woman. Highly strung, one might say. But she didn't commonly cry. Not a crier. At least, not in front of people.

But right now? The woman looked like she was close to tears.
(Lotlhuitl)
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[07:22] Sibri knew right away from the sensation her aura gave off and her posture that this wasn't a conversation to be had in public--and so once they were inside, the door was locked behind them, and he led her over to the nearby chairs...

But she had other plans. There would be no need to sit. When he turned to the table, he heard the clink of her mask and glanced back, then she was on him.
The initial moment of surprise quickly faded away with his eager arms wrapping around her in return. His chin slotted over her hair, allowing her to nuzzle against him if desired, and both of his hands moved up and down, stroking her bare back in a tender glide.

The Dryad listened to what Lotlhuitl had to say with an invested kind of interest, a warmth in her eyes- solely for her. "Strong enough? To take him, or to resist that temptation...? Keeh."

One hand left her back, petting her hip before dipping up against her cheek, wiping away the tear with the tip of his finger. Then the digits went to her feline ear, squeezing it lightly, pinching with the occasional stroke inbetween.
(Sibri)
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[07:35] "-ng," Lotlhuitl choked back a sob. She clung to Sibri, wrapping her arms so tightly around him he'd be forgiven for thinking his Nagual lover was trying to break his ribs. She shivered beneath his touch, feeling his hand slip beneath her tattered cloak to stroke her back.

Comforting.

"I don't k-know...!" Lotlhuitl exhaled, gauntlets digging into the dryad. She wasn't looked up at him. She had buried her head against his neck, her panicked breathing playing out across his skin. Her words, too, for that matter.

The Nagual sniffled, feeling Sibri caress her hip, her face. Wiping away a tear that surely later would be ADAMANT had never been shed.

"Both. Both would be the worst."

Now, she looked up at Sibri. Her eyelashes distinctly dewy. Her lips parted, breathing heavy. Skin flushed. "I don't know what to do. I was just.. I was going to get Lucan to take them. So.. so I could.. rush in and rescue them from him, so that the children like me. And then I'd engineer some reason why we couldn't return to Crafthold."

She shuddered.

"But that's not what the voice inside my head said. It said, 'Kill him. Become him. Torment his mother.' I.. I.. don't know if I can do that, Sibri. I've.. I've never even killed anyone, let alone a child."

A light sniffle. She felt, pathetic. Before Sibri could think that Lotlhuitl was anything other than an incredibly petty creature out for revenge, the Nagual made it clear that she really wasn't a saint, as she mostly spoke aloud, talking through her thought process.

"But maybe I can just keep the children locked away somewhere, long enough for my deception to not be uncovered."
(Lotlhuitl)
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[07:36] Lotlhuitl says, "I mean, I've... potentially found a place I could keep them. Two places.."
[07:44] Throughout it all, his fingers continued to drum against her, moving along her spine and hips, drifting back up... Alongside the hand that nuzzled her ear with his thumb, while he watched and indulged in her plan, listening with a relaxed kind of expression. There was a light smile on his lips--a curve that was barely there.

"Befriend him. Hide him away. But... How will you 'become him'?"
Illusion magic? Sibri tilted his head, but he didn't linger too long on the thought.

"What you decide to do, whether you kill them or not, is not your fault. They stole your child. If they fail to protect their own, keeh..." His shoulders rolled, apathy in his eyes--Sibri had never been particularly against the culling young.

He stepped around her, slow and steady, then leaned in to brush his lips against her neck, whispering through a smile, "If you are afraid. Of damning your soul. I can do it instead. Keeh." Both hands wrapped around the back of her hips, squeezing in, and he stepped forward, bringing her front to the wall.

His groin pressed into her rear, and he continued to whisper, kissing the skin of her collar inbetween, his eyes half-closed in the breathy murmurs, "I am here to help, in all manners, keeh. What you need. What you want."
(Sibri)
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[08:04] Lotlhuitl proved decidedly pliant, her body easily positioned as Sibri stroked her body, her hair, her ear. She blinked, her sadness easing as she listened to the winter dryad speak.

How would she become him? Lotlhuitl hesitated, before attempting a sort of answer.

"I have discovered I possess a certain set of skills, Sibri."

And that was as far as she got in her attempt at talking to Sibri about how she was a Sin Magi. That she'd discovered the secrets of the world, allowing her to glimpse her foes souls and copy aspects of their magical abilities.

It had only recently occurred to her that she might be able to copy more, but she wasn't sure if such things would be possible. But... everything was possible if you wanted it enough, right? And she wanted to ruin Kayeliun.

But such thoughts shifted as Sibri continued to speak. He didn't think it was her fault! A soft happy murmur passed her lips. Thinking about it, he was right. She steeled herself, and welled up within her as she reflected on how she had been personally wronged. "You're right, Sibri. Kayeliun not only stole my child, she turned Xoconan against me. That is is all her fault."

Sibri easily stepped around her. He would have found it easily to capture the willowy and tall Nagaul in his arms, Lotl didn't struggle against him. In fact, she leant her head to the side as his lips brushed against her neck. And at his promise? His offer of murder? A soft groan of pleasure. Or perhaps at feeling his hands squeezing her hips, and being pressed against the wall.

"Please. I need you, Sibri."

Lotlhuitl leant her head lightly to the side, lovely, silken blue black hair trailing over her shoulder. She arched her back, fingers sliding up the wall as she pressed herself back against him.
(Lotlhuitl)